Learn Your Laminate

I just ran across some informative input about the appeal of certain types of flooring to potential Real Estate buyers. Sarah Snodgrass (sarahsnodgrass.com) a full-time, full-service, real estate agent living and working in Kansas City, recently told her clients what she really feels about laminate flooring.
While wood laminate flooring manufactured by Pergo, Dupont, Mannington, Armstrong and other companies is less expensive and easier to install than real wood flooring, Snodgrass pointed to her own experiences when noting the drawbacks of wood laminate flooring.

She also recommended that homeowners planning a floor improvement project stick with the timeless design and high quality craftsmanship of real wood floors. Snodgrass said there are a number of reasons why paying a bit more now can reap attractive returns when it’s time to sell a home.

According to Snodgrass, the Top 5 reasons to say NO to laminate flooring are:1. It will disappointment buyers. “Everyone is going to be momentarily fooled, then ultimately disappointed to learn that what they are seeing is not real wood. This is especially true in older areas of town where hardwood floors are common and expected.”2. It is ugly. “I realize this is a bold statement, but really – can you honestly tell me that you like this better than real hardwoods?”3. Buyers will think that you are cheap. “It is obvious that you thought wood floors would look good, but took the cheaper route. This will lead buyers to wonder where else you cut corners. Buyers are fearful of buying homes they think might have hidden or latent problems from poor craftsmanship, inferior materials, or cheap, inexperienced installation.”4. It is loud. “Unless you are in rubber soled shoes, your shoes will sound noisier than on real wood.”5. It looks dirty and dents easier. “Wood laminate shows and reflects dirt, and almost always looks dirty. Even when it is freshly mopped, you can sometimes see your cleaning streaks in the sunlight. I have also seen high heels and dogs’ nails create dents in wood laminate.”